Gemmell

Gemmell is a surname of Scottish origin. It is borne by a number of individuals in the United Kingdom and beyond, and has become associated with fantasy literature through one of its most well-known bearers. The name is encountered in various parts of the Anglophone world, often among people with Scottish ancestry or connections to Scotland.

Notable people with the surname include David Gemmell, a British fantasy novelist recognized for his contributions to the genre. He is best known for novels such as Legend and Waylander, works that are noted for their heroic themes, moral complexity, and blend of mythic elements with action-driven storytelling. His writings have influenced subsequent fantasy authors and readers, and they remain a reference point in discussions of late 20th-century fantasy fiction.

The surname also lends its name to the David Gemmell Awards, an annual set of honors established in his memory to recognize achievement in fantasy fiction. The awards were intended to celebrate excellence in the genre across several categories and to sustain a public discussion of quality and innovation in fantasy writing.

Beyond these associations, Gemmell remains a family name found in Scotland and among communities with Scottish heritage. As with many surnames of Scottish origin, it may appear in historical records, modern genealogies, and contemporary literary or cultural references.